If you’ve ever felt a little overwhelmed trying to take a happy snap of you and a friend in amongst hundreds of tourists, you’re one of many who are understandably losing interest in following the pack and are putting more focus towards finding a unique experience outside peak travel times. In this instance, travelling during the shoulder season, the sweet spot that falls either side of high season, is a great alternative. Generally speaking, there is less demand for destinations at these times of year, and it may help you avoid crowds and have an overall better holiday; with fewer tourists around, you can enjoy some of the world’s best sights and experiences a little more peacefully. Another top tip is to steer clear of national holidays, school holidays and other major events.
Shoulder season isn’t for everyone, and as always, it’s best to compare flight and accommodation costs at KAYAK.com.au before taking the leap.
PRIME DESTINATIONS, ROOM TO EXPLORE
Europe
Choosing to explore Europe in early autumn instead of summer is a practical choice. Want to see the Mona Lisa? Forget visiting The Louvre in June. Save time in the queue by heading there in the winter months when it’s much quieter – you’re also more likely to get an Insta-worthy selfie with the prized painting. If spending time by the ocean is more your thing, the Greek Islands are still warm enough for a dip in September and October. The island of Corfu is a great pick as its rainy season doesn’t begin until November. With fewer tourists flocking to the shore, you’ll also have more space to spread your towel!
North America
While cities like New York seem to be busy and in high demand all year round, other places in the United States have more finite peak and off-peak seasons, as well as a sweet shoulder season that’s ready for you to take advantage of. Planning a ski holiday in the USA doesn’t have to be done for the typically snow-filled and pricey months of January, February or early March – kickstart your winter adventure by landing a pre-Christmas deal or planning your trip for late March or April. At destinations like Lake Tahoe and Breckenridge the conditions should be favourable and the accommodation significantly cheaper. For snow-lovers hoping to explore Canada’s famous runs, Whistler is also much more affordable in April and if you’re an early riser you might even get a run to yourself!
Asia
With so many variances in climate, Asia can be a difficult region to decipher when it comes to figuring out its shoulder seasons. A number of countries, like South Korea and Japan, have distinct seasons, while other more sub-tropical destinations like India, Malaysia and Thailand have just two: dry and raining. It’s therefore really important to research the individual country that you’re planning to travel to. A good example is Thailand, where the country is overrun with holidaymakers from mid-November through to February, when there is less rain. The good news is that Thailand is fairly temperate all year round. It’s main shoulder seasons are October and March when the weather is slightly warmer and wetter than high season but hotel prices and availability are much more favourable. For a serene dip that will recharge your batteries, try heading to Khao Sok National Park in the country’s south. With jungle forests, limestone karsts, lakes, rivers and animals like Malayan tapirs and langurs, it’s one of Thailand’s most stunning wildlife reserves.
The Caribbean
Looking to plan a Caribbean escape? Rates around summer and spring are sky-high but if you want to experience spots like Mexico, Cuba and Jamaica, best head there in November and early December when hotel prices are 15 to 30% cheaper. During these periods, hurricane season has passed but flight and hotel prices have not yet peaked for winter making it the optimum time to travel for money-conscious globetrotters. For those wanting some well-deserved R&R, it’s also far less busy and the beaches less crowded.
Main image credit: Baranov E@shutterstock.com
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